The Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work recently hosted the inaugural one-day Strong Summer Camp. The camp aimed to introduce 9th-, 10th-, and 11th- students to the social work field and Norfolk State’s campus. Approximately 50 students and volunteers participated in the daylong camp. Student participants and chaperones were from Newport News and Hampton City Public Schools.
The camp consisted of activities with peer mentors, a professional presentation panel from recent program graduates employed as social workers, a campus tour, and a short film viewing followed by a discussion. They learned about social work careers and the possibilities of becoming a licensed clinical social worker, a traveling hospital social worker, or a lawmaker who develops critical legislation that meets the needs of vulnerable individuals.
Through this camp, the School of Social Work wants students from all backgrounds to be effectively trained social work professionals. Dr. Isiah Marshall, Dean of the School of Social Work, says, “This camp is our opportunity to build a solid pipeline of students who will enroll at Norfolk State in the Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work and be dedicated to social justice, equity, and community transformation.”
"The highlight of the camp for the students was the Social Work Professional Panel consisting of young alumni who practice social work in criminal justice, child welfare, and mental health,” states Marshall. “One student said the panel gave them a clearer understanding of what I want to do in social work."
The camp was developed and organized by BSW Program Director Dr. Insoo Chung and supported by current students, faculty, and staff. The camp will be held again in July 2025.